Overview:
This hike has tremendous views, with vistas of Mt. Gunnison and Mt. Lamborn along the way and, at the end, views of mountains to the east and southeast, including the gorgeous ruby range. You can also look directly across Dark Canyon at Marcellina Peak and see a long waterfall coming down one of its gullies.
This area is rich in aspens and fir trees as well as an abundance of wildlife such as Spruce Grouse, bear, bobcat, and elk tracks. COTREX
Trail Description:
This is a long and steady – and at times quite steep – trail. You climb 2,100 feet in approximately 3.4 miles one way to a spectacular overlook. After the first mile from the trailhead, you begin covering ground that only allows hikers and horses – no motorized vehicles and no mechanized vehicles. Yet, this whole area is just outside The Raggeds Wilderness.
You reach the final grand vista at 8,900 feet elevation.
Difficulty: Moderate
How To Get To Trailhead:
Begin at the Dark Canyon Trailhead near Erickson Springs.
From Grand Ave, turn right onto CO-133 N and follow for 14.7 miles. Turn right onto CO Rd 12/Kebler pass rd and follow this for 5.8 miles at which point you turn left onto Munsey Creek Road 795 for a short stint. The trail begins to the right.